Barcelona, 14 November 2015 – The Association of the Mediterranean Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ASCAME) strongly condemns the shameful terrorist attacks carried out yesterday in various locations in and around Paris, extending our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the people of France and wishing a speedy recovery to those injured.

France’s presence in the Mediterranean space is longstanding and its contribution has been indispensable in defining the current Euro-Mediterranean Association. France was at the heart of the launch of the Barcelona Process and the French have always strived to ensure the Partnership’s future.

The Euro-Mediterranean priority cannot be challenged by the threat of terrorism. In such a critical context, all EU countries and its neighbours of the southern Mediterranean shore must stand shoulder to shoulder to fight these attacks and defend the peace and stability of our region. The Euro-Mediterranean Partnership must be preserved at all costs.